The Association of Concerned Indigenes of Okoyong Community, led by its President and Founder, Christ Ambassador Effiong Ekpo, has formally congratulated His Royal Highness Obonn Ita Okon (Obonn Ekpo Akiba) on his emergence as the Clan Head-elect of Akamkpa Clan in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State NEGROIDHAVEN has garnered.
During a visit to the Clan Head-elect on Saturday, Christ Ambassador Ekpo highlighted the significance of the development, expressing optimism for peace and progress in the troubled clan.
“It’s important to note that for a very long time, this clan has been plagued with disputes over clan headship. The late Clan Head, Obonn Eyo Otu Ekpenyong, was elected as far back as 2002, but court cases delayed his recognition until a few years ago. We are here not just to congratulate HRH Obonn Ita Okon on his selection but also to issue a strong warning to anyone planning to frustrate his emergence through frivolous litigation,” Ekpo stated.
He decried the deliberate sponsorship of legal battles by individuals without royal lineage, emphasizing that such actions have undermined the traditional institution and caused prolonged leadership vacuums in the community.
“If anyone attempts to challenge this process unjustly, we, as a registered civil society organization, will have no option but to stage a peaceful protest, even to His Excellency, the Governor, and the Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs, to declare that enough is enough,” Ekpo warned.
Call for Recognition of Traditional Institutions
Ekpo stressed the need for greater recognition of traditional institutions as the “fourth tier of government,” noting their role in community security and governance. He lamented that many communities, including Okoyong, have been destabilized by the neglect of traditional authorities.
“The insecurity in Okoyong and other areas is largely due to the neglect of our traditional institutions. There are villages that have been without a head for years because of endless court orders and disputes. This must stop,” he said.
Ekpo emphasized the historical and cultural framework for selecting the Clan Head, underscoring that candidates must hail from specific royal bloodlines.
“Our history is clear: to become a Clan Head, one must belong to the lineage of Ekpo Akiba Akak, Eyo Akiba Akak, Ayama Akiba Akak and Ekpenyong Akiba Akak Royal Families. This has been the case since the days of the Southeastern State of Nigeria. Any other family laying claims to this title is simply going against tradition and history,” he added.
Appeal for Reinstatement of B. E. O. Etim Report
Ekpo also called for the reinstatement of the B. E. O. Etim’s Report, a historical document outlining the royal succession process in Okoyong and other communities. He revealed that the report, which his late father preserved, could resolve many lingering disputes.
“This report is key to solving pending clan head disputes. It clearly outlines the rightful royal lineages. Unfortunately, it has been set aside over time, paving the way for people without royal ancestry to attempt to claim titles,” he explained.
Call for Accountability and an End to Criminal Patronage
Ekpo further criticized the patronage of criminals by some political leaders, warning that such actions encourage cultism and criminality among the youth.
“When political leaders patronize criminals instead of law-abiding citizens, it sends the wrong message. Young people see that crime pays because those involved are rewarded with political appointments and material benefits. Meanwhile, educated and law-abiding citizens like myself, a degree holder in sociology and M.Sc holder in Criminology, are left out,” he said.
He urged the government to prioritize rewarding law-abiding citizens and called for a synergy between traditional institutions and law enforcement to combat crime effectively.
Celebrating the Heritage of Okoyong
Christ Ambassador Ekpo used the opportunity to reflect on the rich history of the Okoyong people, tracing their migration from the Bantu stock of South Africa to their current settlements in Cross River State. He emphasized that the Okoyong people are not in competition with their Efik neighbors but are proud of our distinct identity as Bantu immigrant.
“Our ancestors were warriors and settlers who migrated and captured territories as far back as the 14th century. We are not rivals with the Efik; we are a proud Bantu stock with a rich history,” he noted.
Ekpo concluded by expressing hope that the reign of the Clan Head-elect, Obonn Ita Okon, would bring peace, development, and security to the Akamkpa Clan.
“We pledge to partner with His Royal Highness in addressing insecurity and fostering development in the community. May his reign bring peace and progress to the Akamkpa Clan,” he said.
The visit was marked by prayers for the Clan Head-elect and a call for unity among the people of Akamkpa and Okoyong.
